Microsoft ready to show new Xbox

Next-generation gaming console will make its debut on MTV next month

By Joris Evers, IDG News Service | 12 April 05

Anyone who wants to learn more about the next Xbox console should tune in to MTV on 13 May.

The software maker and teen music TV channel have struck a marketing deal to provide an early look at the highly anticipated video game console on MTV channels in the US, Asia and Europe during a 24-hour period.

The new Xbox, which is widely expected to be in stores by the end of this year, will be featured in a 30-minute show broadcast in the UK at 8pm, entitled "MTV Presents: The Next Generation Xbox Revealed." The show will be hosted by Lord of the Rings actor Elijah Wood and also star Las Vegas rock band The Killers.

The broadcast will show gameplay of future Xbox games, news on the future of the Xbox Live online gaming service, celebrity interviews and footage on the making of the next-generation console.

Microsoft has gradually been giving out more details of the console technology and games for the device. The company is expected to officially unveil the console at the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3), which starts 17 May in Los Angeles. Sony is expected to premiere its new PlayStation console at the same event.

Local times for the program on May 13 are: Portugal, Romania and UK, 8pm; Asia, 11:30 am; Australia, 7pm; France and Germany, 7pm; Netherlands, 7:30pm; Poland, 9pm; Spain 9:30pm; Scandinavia, 10pm; and Italy, 11:30pm. It will air in the US on May 12 at 9.30pm.